Narrabri, New England North West — New South Wales

Narrabri is a town located in the northeastern part of New South Wales, situated on the banks of the Namoi River. The periodic flooding of the river has made the area quite fertile, making agriculture its primary industry. The town’s place-name was said to translate to ‘forked waters,’ alluding to the branching out of the Namoi River into the Narrabri Creek, and further into the Horse Arm Creek.

The town is quite near the Mount Kaputar National Park, accessed through the Mount Kaputar Road, on the eastern part of Narrabri. There are several camping sites within the park, as well as numerous walking trails.

Located north of the town and accessed through the Narrabri Bingara Road is the Sawn Rocks attraction. The area features several basalt columns having striated façades that appear to be sawn, hence the name. There is a nearby picnic area as well as a walking track that lead to several scenic spots. Also along Bingara Road is the Rocky Creek Glacial area, an ideal swimming spot during summer, while offering picnic amenities the whole year through.

Another popular swimming destination is the Waa Gorge, where there are two natural pools called the ‘Devil’s Waterholes.’ The area’s other attraction are the walls of the gorge itself, colored orange due to passage of water through it.

Another attraction worth a visit is the Yarrie Lake, accessed through Ugoa Street, off the Newell Highway. This body of water is home to a number of water birds, while amenities for picnics, swimming, water sports, and camping are available.

Near the lake is the CSIRO Australia Telescope, with a visitors’ complex that features several exhibits and videos.

Located nearer to town is the Narrabri Lake, where locals and visitors converge to swim and indulge in canoeing and windsurfing. There are also several water birds found in the area.

The town also offers its own heritage walk leading to several interesting points within Narrabri. Examples of historic buildings are the police residence constructed in 1879 and the two courthouses also built in the late 19th century. On Bowen Street is the former Narrabri Steam Flour Mill building. This structure, built in 1881, is now known as the Gallipoli House. Opposite it is the Heritage Centre that used to function as a jail. Constructed in 1882, the center showcases items related to the town’s history. Two religious structures within the town were also built in the late 19th century, the St Cyprian's Anglican Church and the St Stephen's Presbyterian Church, both located along Dewhurst Street.

Narrabri also has several modern-day attractions. Situated on Tibbereena Street, the Crossing Theatre is a vast entertainment complex that comprises of cinema and venues for concerts and other art exhibits. The Australian Cotton Centre, along Newell Highway, also has several exhibits related to the cotton industry in the area. Apart from the interactive displays, the center also sells cotton merchandise to its visitors.

Visitors are also welcome at the vineyard of the Mount Kaputar Wines, accessed through Mount Kaputar Road. Apart from sampling its wine products, they can also enjoy the sweeping vistas afforded at the winery’s verandah.

Visiting the Bohena Olives grove on Yarrie Lake Road will also prove to be an interesting experience, with several olive-based products available for sale.

Community spirit and merrymaking are experienced during the Nosh on the Namoi festival, held every March on the banks of the river. Activities include music performances, wine tasting, art displays, children’s shows, and dancing.